Watts Up Renewables

EP 74 - Engineering Safety | Joe Chacon | Padge LLC

Joe Chacon of Padge LLC returns to the podcast for one of our most technical conversations yet. ⚡🔧 In this episode, we dive deep into the engineering side of renewable energy — from why thermodynamics matters more than most people realize, to the growing challenges and demands of system engineering across modern energy infrastructure. Joe breaks down how small design decisions can create massive impacts in efficiency, reliability, and long-term performance. We also explore practical field knowledge like how to extend the life of your fuses, why understanding failure points matters, and the importance of bridging the gap between engineers and technicians in the field. This episode is packed with real-world insight, technical discussions, and high-level thinking for the engineers, troubleshooters, and technical techs helping keep the industry moving forward. 🌎⚙️

EP 73 - Where AI Meets The Grid | Gareth Brown & Andrew Brunskill | Clir Renewables

On this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Gareth Brown and Andrew Brunskill from Clir Renewables [https://clir.eco?utm_source=chatgpt.com] to dive into the rapidly evolving role of AI and data analytics in the renewable energy industry. ⚡📊 We explore how artificial intelligence is helping reduce technical uncertainty, improve decision-making, and create more resilient and profitable renewable energy assets. Gareth and Andrew break down how Clir Renewables is leveraging advanced analytics and operational insights across more than 350+ GW of renewable assets worldwide — helping operators better understand performance, reliability, and long-term risk. This conversation goes far beyond software. We talk about the future of the industry, the growing importance of data visibility, and how AI is beginning to reshape the way renewable energy sites are operated, maintained, and optimized. If you’re interested in the intersection of technology, operations, and the future of clean energy, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🌎🚀

EP 72 - The Power Of Veterans | Kevin Doffing | Project Vanguard

In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Kevin Doffing of Project Vanguard for a conversation on The Power of Veterans. ⚡🪖 We dive into a perspective that’s not talked about enough in the industry — energy as a matter of national security. Kevin breaks down how our energy system can be viewed through the lens of combined arms in the military, where coordination, redundancy, and strategy all play a critical role in keeping the mission moving forward. We also get into the importance of bringing more diverse viewpoints into renewable energy, including voices that challenge the norm and push the conversation forward in new ways. Because if we’re serious about building a resilient energy future, it’s going to take more than one perspective. This episode is about leadership, mission, and the role veterans play in shaping the future of energy. If you care about where the industry is headed — and how we get there stronger — this is one you don’t want to miss. 🌎⚡

EP 71 - Everyone Is A Safety Manager | Mike Williams

In this powerful episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we sit down with Mike Williams — a renewable energy trainer who’s deeply passionate about building a stronger, safer industry from the inside out. ⚡🦺 We dive into a critical question that doesn’t get asked enough: Are we actually training the people we promote into leadership roles? From new leads to managers, the expectation to lead safely is there — but the support and development don’t always follow. Mike challenges the industry to rethink how we prepare those stepping into positions of influence, and what happens when we don’t. This conversation also reinforces a mindset shift: safety isn’t just a department — it’s everyone’s responsibility. Every technician, every lead, every person on site has the authority to call a stop work if something doesn’t feel right. That kind of culture only works when it’s truly supported, not just stated. We also break down the importance of something simple, yet often overlooked — buddy checking your PPE. It’s a small act that can prevent major incidents, and a reminder that looking out for each other is a core part of the job. At the heart of it all, Mike brings it back to one idea: safety starts from within. It’s not just procedures or policies — it’s personal ownership, awareness, and the standards we hold ourselves to every single day. If you care about leadership, accountability, and building a safer future in renewable energy, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. 🌎⚡

EP 70 - Conferences: Don't Just Attend - Dominate | Ian Steele | Here To Serve Renewables

In this episode of Watt’s Up Renewables, we welcome back Ian Steele of Here To Serve Renewables for a powerful, real-world conversation on leadership and industry growth. ⚡🎙️ We kick things off by diving into what truly separates great managers from the rest. From autocratic styles to influencer-driven leadership, Ian breaks down the different approaches to management — what works, what doesn’t, and how leadership directly impacts team performance and safety in the field. 🔧 Then we shift gears into a deep discussion on renewable energy conferences — the good, the bad, and everything in between. We talk about what actually makes these events valuable, where companies often miss the mark, and how to maximize ROI whether you’re attending or exhibiting. From networking tactics to deciding when it’s the right time to invest in a booth, this episode is packed with practical insights for companies looking to grow and stand out. 🚀 If you’ve ever wondered how to lead better, connect smarter, and get more out of industry events — this one’s for you. 🌎